Magoo

Magoo is a four piece progressive bluegrass band from Denver, Colorado and you must check them out if you have an interest in the genre, or in being blown away by live performances. This band is dripping with talent and needs to get some more recognition for their work. I had the pleasure of seeing them live for the first time recently after being recommended to them multiple times. It did not disappoint.

The most captivating part of the whole band, which is hard to choose, has to be their front man and mandolinist, Courtlyn Bills. The level of skill he has is currently seen with the big figures in the industry like Jarrod Walker or Sierra Hull but rarely anywhere else. After the show I spoke to Bills and relayed my fascination with his playing and he told me that he is originally a guitar player. He claims he approaches the instrument the same way he would approach playing the guitar. I wish more people took this approach so more people could play like him!

It's also worth noting that this band is unique because of the instrument selection. They do not have a banjo or fiddle, at least not any current members, but they do have a dobro in the mix! This is fairly unique as not many bands choose to have a permanent dobro player, and I will say it was a great choice! It gave the traditional music a sound that you don’t often get to hear live. 

Lastly, I want to touch on the stage presence of the band as a whole. It's easy to see from the crowd that these four guys are having a ton of fun doing what they are doing and their cheerfulness is part of what makes a Magoo show so fun! The charisma and humor that they incorporate while also dominating their instruments make these guys a must see. Check them out!